Wooden Baby Cradle

Datec. 1870's

Dimensions(A) 101 x 49.5 cm
(B) 95.5 x 35 cm

Credit LineGift of Mrs. L. D. Wilcox, London, Ontario, 1994

Object number1994.037.001

Label TextThis cradle illustrates changes in baby furniture that occurred over the course of the 19th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, babies often slept in homemade cradles, often made from leftover materials from other projects. These cradles usually had rockers attached to the bottom. Many also had hoods that protected the baby from drafts. As well, some had holes along the top edges of the sides of the cradle for lacing that would tie the baby into the cradle. As the 19th century unfolded, medical authorities developed new ideas about the importance of fresh air and exercise. Enclosed cradles began to give way to cradles and cribs made of slats or spindles, which allowed the free flow of air. The rockers also came into question. In the early to mid-19th century, experts believed rocking mimicked the movement the baby experienced in the womb. From the mid-19th century on, experts feared that babies could be injured through excessive rocking. They advocated fixed beds instead. Cradles gave way to cribs, which have remained dominant ever since.

NameCradle